Cowling confirmed that their win over Oakworth the previous week was no fluke when they toppled J P Mewies Craven League Division One pacemakers and defending champions Embsay last weekend.

Defeat for the leaders opened the door for second-placed Barrowford to take over top spot by a point after a close-run victory at home to Haworth.

Cowling's memorable impact on the title race may not be enough to propel them fully into contention, although they now occupy fourth place in the table, but it certainly added an edge to the closing match of the season if normal service is resumed in the closing weeks.

On recent evidence, there is a great deal of water to pass under the bridge, but barring any further shocks, the final game of the season on September 11 between Embsay and Barrowford could be quite a finale.

Cowling success was one of a couple of shocks last weekend on a day of glorious weather, good cricket and some close finishes.

Cowling cannot have been too hopeful when they posted a moderate 149-7 against Embsay, with Keith Woodhead leading the way with 42 as Stephen Speak claimed 4-31.

However, the usually fluent batting of the Shires Lane side collapsed dramatically, with the notable exception of Simon Bailey, who made 94 while his team-mates contributed a modest 44 in an 11-run defeat. Messrs Dalby (5-62) and Hassan (4-40) did the damage.